Cornish hen in air fryer are a delicious alternative to larger poultry, offering tender and juicy meat with a delightful flavor. Cooking Cornish hen in air fryer is a fantastic way to achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat moist and flavorful. Follow this simple recipe to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Equipment Needed to cook Cornish hen in air fryer
- Air fryer
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
2. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your Cornish hens cook evenly and helps to achieve that crispy exterior.
3. Prepare the Cornish Hens
Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, allowing the seasoning to adhere better to the skin.
4. Season the Hens
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the Cornish hens, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Truss the Hens (Optional)
Trussing the Cornish hens helps to ensure that they cook evenly and retain their shape. Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together and tuck the wings underneath the body.
6. Place in the Air Fryer Basket
Once the Cornish hens are seasoned and trussed, place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook them in batches.
7. Cook in the Air Fryer
Cook the Cornish hens in the air fryer at 360°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through the cooking time, flip the hens to ensure they cook evenly and develop a crispy skin on all sides.
8. Let Them Rest
Once the Cornish hens are cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Cornish hens hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped herbs for an extra burst of flavor and enjoy your delicious meal!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Cornish hens in the air fryer is quick, easy, and results in perfectly cooked poultry every time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy a delicious and impressive meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use different seasonings for the Cornish hens?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
2. Do I need to flip the hens while they’re cooking in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping the hens halfway through the cooking time helps to ensure that they cook evenly and develop a crispy skin on all sides.
3. Can I cook frozen Cornish hens in the air fryer?
It’s best to thaw the Cornish hens completely before cooking them in the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
4. How do I know when the Cornish hens are done?
The internal temperature of the hens should reach 165°F (74°C) when they are fully cooked.
5. Can I marinate the Cornish hens before cooking them in the air fryer?
While you can marinate the hens if you prefer, it’s not necessary as the seasoning blend in this recipe adds plenty of flavor.